Closure system

ABSTRACT

A closure system is provided. The closure system comprises an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members. An inner panel is provided comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members, and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel. The insertion panel comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface where each surface includes a plurality of connecting members. The inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel, and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to seal the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels. Methods of use are also disclosed.

BACKGROUND

Numerous closure devices and methods are used to temporarily and/orpermanently fix or enhance articles of apparel such as clothing, gear,underclothing, leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories, and other fabricmaterials. The best known and widely used closure devices are buttons(e.g., classical, automatic or magnetic), snaps, hook-and-eye fastener,clips, clasps, zippers, hook-and-loop (e.g., Velcro®, Velcro USA, Inc.,Manchester, N.H., United States), buckles, laces, and magnetic bands.

However, all of the closure devices above that are permanently attachedto an item of apparel must be mechanically manipulated at length to openand close, and may be unacceptable for a user. They can also beimpractical, inefficient, uncomfortable and/or expensive. For example,they have a disadvantage of leaving a gap or an opening between parts ofan item of apparel, and so they are not effective when a tight seal isdesired to prevent water or snow from entering the apparel.Additionally, current closure devices oftentimes do not deliver a sleek,seamless appearance and/or can add unwanted bulk.

One area where a tight seal, sleek design and reduction of bulk isdesired is in the area of convertible wetsuits. Convertible wetsuitsallow the user to convert a full length wetsuit into a short-lengthwetsuit, and vice versa, in accordance with ambient water temperatureconditions. Convertible wetsuits require some sort of joint/closuremechanism for detachably joining an extended sleeve or legging to ashort sleeve or short legging. One common type of connecting structureused is a 360 degree zipper or a hook-and-loop closure (Velcro®)fastener surrounding the interface between the short sleeves and shortleggings of the wetsuit and the detachably connectible extended sleevesand leggings.

Unfortunately, a joint/closure mechanism in the form of a zipper or ahook-and-loop closure (e.g., Velcro®) is not without its shortcomings.While a joint/closure mechanism can provide a secure coupling betweenthe limb covering components of the wetsuit or other article of apparel,it does not provide an absolute seal, allowing for water to enter if thearticle does not fit the user properly. With regard to the zipper, whenit is used in a wetsuit or another article of apparel, it often causesjamming of fabric that complicates the closure process. It also cannotbe applied to light fabrics, permits no lateral adjustment, adds expenseand other inconveniences. With regard to the hook-and-loop closure(e.g., Velcro®), this type of closure is used to avoid someinconveniences, but is not easily washable since it catches on otherfabrics and becomes clogged with lint, wool, hair, dust etc. It also candamage skin and fabric if it is not aligned perfectly together. Further,due to their design, a zipper or hook-and-loop closure (e.g., Velcro®)will not provide a sleek and seamless design, and will also add bulk tothe article of apparel.

Accordingly, in view of the foregoing limitations and problems discussedabove, there is a need for a closure system which has an improved designto create a water tight seal, delivers a sleek and seamless appearance,while also reducing the amount of bulk that is implemented to an articlewhen a closure system is applied to it.

SUMMARY

A closure system is provided for articles of apparel. The closure systemcomprises an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a pluralityof connecting members. An inner panel is provided comprising an outersurface having a plurality of connecting members, and an insertion panelconfigured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel. Theinsertion panel comprises an interior surface and an exterior surfacewhere each surface includes a plurality of connecting members. The innersurface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of theinsertion panel, and the outer surface of the inner panel engages withthe interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure theinsertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

In one embodiment, an article of apparel closure system is provided. Thearticle of apparel closure system comprises a pocket comprising an outerpanel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connectingmembers. An inner panel is provided comprising an outer surface having aplurality of connecting members, and an insertion panel configured forengagement with the pocket. The insertion panel comprises an exteriorsurface and an interior surface, where each surface has a plurality ofconnecting members. The inner surface of the outer panel engages withthe exterior surface of the insertion panel and the outer surface of theinner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel soas to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

In one embodiment, a wetsuit is provided that includes a closure system.The wetsuit comprises a body having a distal end comprising a firstpocket and a second pocket. Each of the pockets comprise an outer panelcomprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members andan inner panel comprising an outer surface having a plurality ofconnecting members. A first legging and a second legging are provided.Each of the leggings comprising an insertion panel disposed at aproximal end, and configured for engagement with the outer panel and theinner panel of the pocket. The insertion panel comprises an interiorsurface and an exterior surface, each surface having a plurality ofconnecting members. The inner surface of the outer panel engages withthe exterior surface of the insertion panel and the outer surface of theinner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel soas to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the presentapplication will become apparent from the following description read inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like referencenumerals designate the same elements. The present application isconsidered to include all functional combinations of the above describedfeatures and is not limited to the particular structural embodimentsshown in the figures as examples. The scope and spirit of the presentapplication are considered to include modifications as may be made bythose skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosurewhich substitute, for elements presented in the claims, devices orstructures upon which the claim language reads or which are equivalentthereto, and which produce substantially the same results associatedwith those corresponding examples identified in this disclosure forpurposes of the operation of this application. Furthermore, operationsin accordance with methods of the description and claims are notintended to be required in any particular order unless necessitated byprerequisites included in the operations. Additionally, the scope andspirit of the present application is intended to be defined by the scopeof the claim language itself and equivalents thereto withoutincorporation of structural or functional limitations discussed in thespecification which are not referred to in the claim language itself.Accordingly, the detailed description is intended as illustrative innature and not limiting the scope and spirit of the present application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a closure systemdisposed on an article of apparel;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the closure system, as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of components of the closure system, asshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of components of the closure system, asshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of a closure system disposed ona wetsuit;

FIG. 6 is a front view of the closure system, as shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a front view of an embodiment of a closure system disposed onmultiple sections of a wetsuit; and

FIG. 8 is a front view of an embodiment of a closure system disposed ona fashion hanger.

It is to be understood that the figures are not drawn or photographed toscale. Further, the relation between objects in a figure may not be toscale, and may in fact have a reverse relationship as to size. Thefigures are intended to bring understanding and clarity to the structureof each object shown, and thus, some features may be exaggerated inorder to illustrate a specific feature of a structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Definitions

For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unlessotherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients,percentages or proportions of materials, reaction conditions, and othernumerical values used in the specification and claims, are to beunderstood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.”Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of theantecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular valueforms another embodiment that is +/−10% of the recited value.Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parametersset forth in the following specification and attached claims areapproximations that may vary depending upon the desired propertiessought to be obtained by the present disclosure. At the very least, andnot as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine ofequivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter shouldat least be construed in light of the number of reported significantdigits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Also, as used inthe specification and including the appended claims, the singular forms“a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particularnumerical value includes at least that particular value, unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein asfrom “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about”or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range isexpressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular valueand/or to the other particular value.

Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forththe broad scope of this application are approximations, the numericalvalues set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely aspossible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certainerrors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in theirrespective testing measurements. Moreover, all ranges disclosed hereinare to be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumedtherein. For example, a range of “1 to 10” includes any and allsubranges between (and including) the minimum value of 1 and the maximumvalue of 10, that is, any and all subranges having a minimum value ofequal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value of equal to or less than10, e.g., 5.5 to 10.

The term “rubber”, as described herein, refers to a tough elasticpolymeric substance that is natural or synthetically. “Synthetic rubber”refers to any artificial elastomer, including, but not limited topolyacrylate rubber, ethylene-acrylate rubber, polyester urethane, bromoisobutylene isoprene, polybutadiene, chloro isobutylene isoprene,polychloroprene, chlorosulphonated polyethylene, epichlorohydrin,ethylene propylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer, polyetherurethane, perfluorocarbon rubber, fluoronated hydrocarbon, fluorosilicone, fluorocarbon rubber, hydrogenated nitrile butadiene,polyisoprene, isobutylene isoprene butyl, acrylonitrile butadiene,polyurethane, styrene butadiene, styrene ethylene butylene styrenecopolymer, polysiloxane, vinyl methyl silicone, acrylonitrile butadienecarboxy monomer, styrene butadiene carboxy monomer, thermoplasticpolyether-ester, styrene butadiene block copolymer, and styrenebutadiene carboxy block copolymer. “Natural rubber” refers to an elasticmaterial obtained from the latex sap of trees, such as, for example ofthe genera Hevea and Ficus, including, but is not limited to liquidlatex rubber.

The term “modulus of elasticity,” or “Young's modulus” as describedherein, refers to the ratio of tensile stress to tensile strain. Itdescribes tensile elasticity, or the tendency of an object to deformalong an axis when opposing forces are applied along that axis. Forexample, the range of modulus of elasticity of the rubbers describedabove is about 1 to about 10 megapascals (MPa). In some embodiments, themodulus of elasticity is from about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 MPafor the rubbers described above.

The term “International Rubber Hardness Degrees” or “(IRHD)”, refers toa method used to determine the hardness of a rubber. The rubbersdescribed herein have an IRHD of from about 30 to about 85. In someembodiments, the rubbers described herein, have an IRHD of from about30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47,48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65,66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83,84 or 85.

The term “screen printed” or “screen printing”, as described herein,refers to a method in which a liquid is applied directly to the surfaceto be printed (e.g., substrate). The image to be printed isphotographically transferred to a very fine fabric (e.g., the screen)such that the non-printing areas are blocked off and the fabric servesas a stencil.

The term “water tight” “water seal” or “water tight seal”, as describedherein, refers to not permitting the passage of water either in or outof an article of apparel.

The term “adhesive”, as described herein, refers to polymers such aspolyamides, polyolefins, and polyurethanes (includingpolyurethaneureas), hot melt adhesive, a cyanoacrylate, an epoxy,polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol (including rubber), a thermoplastic(including polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyamides), silicone, latexpolymer, a thermoset, a pressure sensitive adhesive and combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive is administered in a glue,tape, or spray form. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be applied instrips, dots, and/or in layers. In some embodiments, the adhesiveincludes dispersions or films that may be added to or in conjunctionwith the closure system.

The term “fabric” refers to a knitted, woven or nonwoven material.Knitted fabric may be flat knit, circular knit, warp knit, narrowelastic, or lace. Woven fabric may be of any construction, for examplesateen, twill, plain weave, oxford weave, basket weave, and narrowelastic. Nonwoven material may be meltblown, spun bonded, wet-laid,carded fiber-based staple webs, and the like. In some embodiments, thefabric is chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®, Denka Performance ElastomerLLC, LaPlace, La., United States), spandex (Lycra®, Invista Co.,Wichita, Kans., United States), flashspun high-density polyethylenefibers (Tyvek®, DuPont USA Co., Wilmington, Del., United States), orcanvas.

The term “magnet” or “magnets”, as described herein, refers to amaterial or object that produces a magnetic field. In some embodiments,the magnet is a strip or a button. In some embodiments, the closuresystem comprises a plurality of magnets in addition to or as analternative to other components of the closure system, as describedherein.

Closure System

A closure system 20, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, is provided that can beattached to any article of apparel, including, but not limited to,clothing, gear, underclothing, leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories,and/or other fabric materials. The closure system can also be attachedto clothing organizers and/or hangers. The closure system comprises anouter panel 22. In some embodiments, the outer panel is configured forengagement with an inner panel and an insertion panel to secure theinsertion panel with the outer panel and the inner panel, as describedherein. In some embodiments, the outer panel comprises a fabricmaterial. In some embodiments, the outer panel comprises a stiffmaterial comprising chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®),flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or acombination thereof.

In some embodiments, the outer panel has a certain thickness. In someembodiments, the outer panel has a thickness range from about 0.1millimeter (mm) to about 50 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 40 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 30 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 25 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 20 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 15 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 5 mm, from about2 mm to about 20 mm, from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, from about 2 mm toabout 10 mm, from about 2 mm, to about 5 mm, from about 3 mm to about 20mm, from about 3 mm to about 15 mm, from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, fromabout 3 mm to about 5 mm, from about 4 mm to about 20 mm, from about 4mm to about 15 mm, from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, from about 4 mm toabout 5 mm, from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, from about 5 mm to about 15mm, from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the thicknessof the outer panel is about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9,1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50 mm.

In some embodiments, the outer panel is a circumferential panel. In someembodiments, the outer panel is configured as an outer sleeve. The outerpanel comprises an inner surface 24. The inner surface is textured witha plurality of connecting members 26. In some embodiments, the pluralityof connecting members are configured for engagement with additionalplurality of connecting members that are disposed on surfaces of aninsertion panel, as described herein. In one embodiment, the pluralityof connecting members are screen printed onto the outer panel.

In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members comprise arubber. In one embodiment, the rubber comprises one or a combination ofsynthetic rubbers, including, but not limited to polyacrylate rubber,ethylene-acrylate rubber, polyester urethane, bromo isobutyleneisoprene, polybutadiene, chloro isobutylene isoprene, polychloroprene,chlorosulphonated polyethylene, epichlorohydrin, ethylene propylene,ethylene propylene diene monomer, polyether urethane, perfluorocarbonrubber, fluoronated hydrocarbon, fluoro silicone, fluorocarbon rubber,hydrogenated nitrile butadiene, polyisoprene, isobutylene isoprenebutyl, acrylonitrile butadiene, polyurethane, styrene butadiene, styreneethylene butylene styrene copolymer, polysiloxane, vinyl methylsilicone, acrylonitrile butadiene carboxy monomer, styrene butadienecarboxy monomer, thermoplastic polyether-ester, styrene butadiene blockcopolymer, and styrene butadiene carboxy block copolymer. In someembodiments, the rubber comprises a natural rubber comprising a liquidlatex rubber.

In some embodiments, the rubber comprises a modulus of elasticity in therange of about 1 to about 10 MPa. In some embodiments, the rubber has amodulus of elasticity from about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 to about 10MPa.

In some embodiments, the rubbers described herein have an IRHD of fromabout 30 to about 85. In some embodiments, the rubber has an IRHD offrom about 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44,45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80,81, 82, 83, 84 or 85.

In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are molded intoshapes, including, but not limited to, circles (e.g., dots), squares,triangles, ovals, crescents, chevrons, rectangles, waves, horseshoes,rods, hexagons or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, theplurality of connecting members are arranged in a pattern such as, forexample, in a row, or in a block pattern. In some embodiments, theplurality of connecting members are arranged in single or multiple rows.In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are arranged in1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20rows. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members aredisposed in about 1 to about 20, about 1 to about 15, about 1 to about10, about 1 to about 5, about 5 to about 20, about 5 to about 15, about5 to about 10, about 10 to about 20, about 10 to about 15, or about 15to about 20 rows. In some embodiments, the rows are in alignment withother rows or are in a staggered alignment with other rows. In someembodiments, the plurality of connecting members may be arranged in adiscrete, clumped, or random configuration.

In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members can include oneor more connecting members. In some embodiments, the plurality ofconnecting members may be configured in a specific amount depending onthe size and dimensions of the outer panel. In one embodiment, theplurality of connecting members have a particular thickness. In someembodiments, the plurality of connecting members have a thickness fromabout 0.01 mm to about 4 mm, from about 0.05 mm to about 4 mm, fromabout 0.1 mm to about 4 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 4 mm, from about1 mm to about 4 mm, from about 2 mm to about 4 mm, or from about 3 mm toabout 4 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting membershave a thickness from about 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07,0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2,1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6,2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9 and/or4.0 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members havethe same or different thicknesses.

In one embodiment, the closure system alternatively comprises a band(not shown) instead of the plurality of connecting members. In someembodiments, the band is elastic. In some embodiments, the band isrubber. In some embodiments, the closure system alternatively comprisesa plurality of magnets 27 (as shown in FIG. 8) instead of the pluralityof connecting members. In some embodiments, the closure systemalternatively comprises a plurality of connecting members, a band or aplurality of bands, and/or a plurality of magnets. In some embodiments,the plurality of magnets have the same thicknesses and arrangement thatthe plurality of connecting members have, as described above.

The closure system comprises an inner panel 28. In some embodiments, theinner panel comprises a fabric material. In some embodiments, the innerpanel comprises a stiff material comprising chloroprene rubber(Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylenefibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,the inner panel comprises the same or different material than the outerpanel.

In some embodiments, the inner panel has a certain thickness. In someembodiments, the inner panel has a thickness range from about 0.1millimeter (mm) to about 50 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 40 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 30 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 25 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 20 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 15 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 5 mm, from about2 mm to about 20 mm, from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, from about 2 mm toabout 10 mm, from about 2 mm, to about 5 mm, from about 3 mm to about 20mm, from about 3 mm to about 15 mm, from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, fromabout 3 mm to about 5 mm, from about 4 mm to about 20 mm, from about 4mm to about 15 mm, from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, from about 4 mm toabout 5 mm, from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, from about 5 mm to about 15mm, from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the thicknessof the inner panel is about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9,1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50 mm. In someembodiments, the inner panel has the same or a different thickness thanthe outer panel.

In some embodiments, the inner panel is a circumferential panel similarto the outer panel. In some embodiments, the inner panel is configuredas an inner sleeve. In some embodiments, the outer panel and the innerpanel are configured for fixed engagement. In some embodiments, aproximal end of each of the outer panel and the inner panel fixedlyengage to form a pocket. In some embodiments, the fixed engagement isvia an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes, but is notlimited to, polymers such as polyamides, polyolefins, and polyurethanes(including polyurethaneureas), hot melt adhesive, a cyanoacrylate, anepoxy, polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol (including rubber), athermoplastic (including polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyamides),silicone, latex polymer, a thermoset, a pressure sensitive adhesive or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive is administeredin a glue, tape, or spray form. In some embodiments, the adhesive can beapplied in strips, dots, and/or in layers. In some embodiments, theadhesive includes dispersions or films. In some embodiments, a certainamount of adhesive is applied to the proximal end of each of the outerpanel and the inner panel to form the pocket. In some embodiments, thefixed engagement is via stitching. In some embodiments, the stitchingcomprises lock stitch, zigzag stitch, stretch stitch, cover stitch, backtack, backstitch, basting stitch, chain stitch, cross-stitch, padstitch, running stitch, or a combination thereof.

The inner panel comprises an outer surface 30. The outer surface istextured with a plurality of connecting members 32, identical toplurality of connecting members 26. In some embodiments, the pluralityof connecting members are configured for engagement with additionalplurality of connecting members that are disposed on surfaces of aninsertion panel, as described herein.

The closure system comprises an insertion panel 34 that is configuredfor engagement, such as, for example, is secured with the outer paneland the inner panel, as described herein. In some embodiments, theinsertion panel is a circumferential panel. In some embodiments, theinsertion panel is tubular. In some embodiments, the insertion panelcomprises a fabric material. In some embodiments, the insertion panelcomprises a stiff material comprising chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®),spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®),canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the insertionpanel comprises the same or different material than the outer paneland/or inner panel.

In some embodiments, the insertion panel has a certain thickness. Insome embodiments, the insertion panel has a thickness range from about0.1 millimeter (mm) to about 50 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 40 mm,from about 1.0 mm to about 30 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 25 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 20 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 15 mm, fromabout 1.0 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 5 mm, from about2 mm to about 20 mm, from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, from about 2 mm toabout 10 mm, from about 2 mm, to about 5 mm, from about 3 mm to about 20mm, from about 3 mm to about 15 mm, from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, fromabout 3 mm to about 5 mm, from about 4 mm to about 20 mm, from about 4mm to about 15 mm, from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, from about 4 mm toabout 5 mm, from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, from about 5 mm to about 15mm, from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the thicknessof the insertion panel is about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8,0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50 mm. In someembodiments, the insertion panel has the same or a different thicknessthan the outer panel and/or the inner panel.

The insertion panel comprises an interior surface 36 and an exteriorsurface 38. Each of the interior and exterior surfaces having aplurality of connecting members 40 that are identical to the pluralityof connecting members 26 and 32, as described herein. Plurality ofconnecting members 40 are configured for engagement with plurality ofconnecting members 26 and 32. For example, the inner surface of theouter panel along with the plurality of connecting members 26 engageswith the exterior surface of the insertion panel along with theplurality of connecting members 40, and the outer surface of the innerpanel along with the plurality of connecting members 32 engages with theinterior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality ofconnecting members 40 so as to secure the insertion panel with the outerand inner panels. In some embodiments, when the outer panel and theinner panel form a pocket, the insertion panel is inserted into thepocket, and the insertion panel is secured within the pocket. In oneembodiment, the outer and inner panels friction interlock with theinsertion panel.

In some embodiments, when the closure system comprises the plurality ofconnecting members described above, the insertion panel is frictionlocked with the outer and inner panels when the closure system is fixedwith an article of apparel that is being worn by a user. The user'sbody, combined with the closure system, causes a tight fit that frictionlocks the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

In some embodiments, the closure system is fixedly attached to anarticle of apparel, including, but not limited to, clothing, gear,underclothing, leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories, and other fabricmaterials. In some embodiments, the closure system is removably orfixedly attached to clothing organizers and/or hangers to secure anarticle of apparel or other object to the clothing organizer and/orhanger. In some embodiments, parts or all of the closure system istemporarily or permanently attached to an article of apparel, clothingorganizers and/or hangers.

In some embodiments, the closure system fixedly attaches to the articleof apparel via an adhesive or stitching. In some embodiments, theadhesive includes, but is not limited to, polymers such as polyamides,polyolefins, and polyurethanes (including polyurethaneureas), hot meltadhesive, a cyanoacrylate, an epoxy, polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol(including rubber), a thermoplastic (including polyurethanes,polyesters, and polyamides), silicone, latex polymer, a thermoset, apressure sensitive adhesive or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the adhesive is administered in a glue, tape, or sprayform. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be applied in strips, dots,and/or in layers. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes dispersionsor films. In some embodiments, the fixed engagement is via stitching. Insome embodiments, the stitching comprises lock stitch, zigzag stitch,stretch stitch, cover stitch, back tack, backstitch, basting stitch,chain stitch, cross-stitch, pad stitch, running stitch, or a combinationthereof.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5-7, a closure system 120,similar to closure system 20 described above, is disposed with anarticle of apparel, such as, for example, a wetsuit 42. The wetsuitcomprises a body 44. The body is disposed on a longitudinal axis A,shown in FIG. 6. The body includes a distal end 46 including a firstopening comprising a first pocket 48 disposed about a perimeter of thefirst opening, and a second opening comprising a second pocket 50disposed about a perimeter of the second opening. The first and secondopenings are disposed parallel to one another, and the pockets aredisposed transverse relative to the longitudinal axis of the body. Eachpocket is fixed to the perimeter of the opening via stitching. In someembodiments, the stitching includes, but is not limited to, a lockstitch, zigzag stitch, stretch stitch, cover stitch, back tack,backstitch, basting stitch, chain stitch, cross-stitch, pad stitch,running stitch, or a combination thereof.

The first and second pockets are configured similar to the pocketdescribed above with regard to closure system 20. For example, each ofthe pockets comprises an outer panel 122 comprising an inner surface124. The inner surface has a plurality of connecting members 126. Insome embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are screen printedonto the inner surface. Each of the pockets comprises an inner panel 128comprising an outer surface 130. The outer surface has a plurality ofconnecting members 132. In some embodiments, the plurality of connectingmembers are screen printed onto the outer surface. The outer panel 122,inner surface 124, plurality of connecting members 126, inner panel 128,outer surface 130 and plurality of connecting members 132 are identicalto outer panel 22, inner surface 24, plurality of connecting members 26,inner panel 28, and outer surface 30, respectively, as described abovewith regard to closure system 20.

The outer and inner panels are circumferential panels that areconfigured as outer and inner sleeves. The outer panel and the innerpanel are configured for fixed engagement. In some embodiments, aproximal end of each of the outer panel and the inner panel fixedlyengage to form the pocket.

In some embodiments, the outer panel and inner panel that form thepocket comprise a stiff material comprising chloroprene rubber(Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylenefibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,the outer panel is made from the same or a different material that theinner panel.

The wetsuit comprises a first legging 52, and a second legging 54. Thefirst legging is disposed on a longitudinal axis B and the secondlegging is disposed on a longitudinal axis C, as shown in FIG. 6. Theleggings are tubular. Each of the leggings comprises an insertion panel134, identical to insertion panel 34, as described above with regard toclosure system 20. The insertion panel is disposed at a proximal end ofthe legging and runs transverse relative to the longitudinal axis of thelegging. The insertion panel is circumferentially disposed along theentire perimeter of the proximal end of the legging and corresponds tothe diameter of the legging. The insertion panel is configured forengagement with the outer panel and the inner panel of the pocket.

The insertion panel comprises an interior surface 136 and an exteriorsurface 138 that are identical to interior surface 36 and exteriorsurface 38 of closure system 20. Each surface has a plurality ofconnecting members 140 that are identical to plurality of connectingmembers 40 of closure system 20.

In some embodiments, the insertion panel comprises chloroprene rubber(Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylenefibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,the insertion panel is made from the same or different material as theouter and/or inner panels.

The inner surface of the outer panel along with the plurality ofconnecting members engages with the exterior surface of the insertionpanel along with the plurality of connecting members, and the outersurface of the inner panel along with the plurality of connectingmembers engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel alongwith the plurality of connecting members, so as to secure the insertionpanel with the outer and inner panels.

In some embodiments, when the outer panel and the inner panel form apocket, the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket, and theinsertion panel is secured within the pocket. In one embodiment, theouter and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel.

In some embodiments, the insertion panel is friction locked with theouter and inner panels when the wetsuit is being worn by a user. Forexample, the user's limbs expanding the elastic material of the wetsuit,combined with the closure system, causes a tight fit that friction locksthe insertion panel with the outer and inner panels. This friction lockprovides a water tight seal, creates a sleek and seamless appearance,and reduces the amount of bulk on the wetsuit.

In some embodiments, the closure system is disposed with a wetsuit toconvert the wetsuit into different types of wetsuits. For example, theclosure system is disposed with a wetsuit to make the arm sleeves,leggings, upper body, and/or lower body removable from the wetsuit, asshown in FIG. 7. In some embodiments, the closure system is disposedwith a wetsuit to removably attach gloves and/or booties to the wetsuit.

In some embodiments, a closure system, similar to closure system 20 and120 above, is disposed on a wetsuit where the outer and inner panels arefixed with a distal end of a wetsuit arm sleeve such that a distal endof a glove 45 comprising an insertion panel can be secured to the distalend of the arm sleeve, as shown in FIG. 6. Since a standard wetsuitcomprises two arm sleeves, each distal end of an arm sleeve isconfigured with an outer and inner panel. The properties of the outerand inner panels are identical to the outer and inner panels of closuresystem 20 and 120.

In some embodiments, the outer and inner panels form a pocket and arecircumferentially configured about the distal end of the sleeve. Theouter panel comprises an inner surface having a plurality of connectingmembers. In some embodiments, the outer panel has a particularthickness, such as, for example, 4 mm. The inner panel comprises anouter surface defining an opening, such as for example, a thumb holeconfigured for disposal of a user's thumb. The outer surface comprises aplurality of connecting members. The plurality of connecting members areidentical to the plurality of connecting members described in closuresystem 20 and 120. In some embodiments, the inner panel has a particularthickness, such as, for example, 1 mm. In some embodiments, the innerpanel and the outer panel are made from a fabric material comprisingchloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-densitypolyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the outer panel is made from the same or different materialas the inner panel.

The closure system comprises an insertion panel disposed on a distal endof the glove. The properties of the insertion panel are identical to theinsertion panel of closure system 20 and 120. The insertion panel iscircumferentially configured about the perimeter of the distal end ofthe glove and corresponds to the diameter of the glove. The insertionpanel comprises an exterior surface and an interior surface eachcomprising a plurality of connecting members. The plurality ofconnecting members are identical to plurality of connecting members 40.

The insertion panel is configured to be secured with the outer and innerpanels. For example, the inner surface of the outer panel along with theplurality of connecting members engages with the exterior surface of theinsertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members, and theouter surface of the inner panel along with the plurality of connectingmembers engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel alongwith the plurality of connecting members, so as to secure the insertionpanel with the outer and inner panels. In some embodiments, when theouter panel and the inner panel form a pocket, the insertion panel isinserted into the pocket, and the insertion panel is secured within thepocket. In one embodiment, the outer and inner panels friction interlockwith the insertion panel in a similar manner as is described above withregard to closure system 120. In some embodiments, the closure systemfor securing a glove to an arm sleeve of a wetsuit can also beconfigured for securing a wetsuit boot to a wetsuit, and for securingsnowboarding and/or ski gear to a snow suit or to other articles ofapparel.

In some embodiments, a closure system 220, as shown in FIG. 8, similarto closure system 20 and 120 above, is provided that is attached to ahanger 222. In some embodiments, the closure system is configured forengagement with at least a portion of an article of apparel such thatthe article of apparel is secured to the hanger. In some embodiments,the engagement between the closure system and at least a portion of thearticle of apparel is friction fit engagement or snap fit engagement.

The hanger includes a first flap 224 and a second flap 226. In someembodiments, the flaps are similar to the outer and inners panelsdisclosed above with regard to closure system 20. The first flap and thesecond flap each include an inner surface that includes a plurality ofconnecting members 228. The plurality of connecting members are wireinserts. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members aresimilar to the plurality of connecting members 26 and 32 described abovewith regard to closure system 20.

In some embodiments, in conjunction with the hanger, a hanger covering221 is provided. In some embodiments, the hanger covering is made of acloth material. In some embodiments, the hanger covering is configuredto be disposed about the entire hanger such that the hanger and an itemof clothing are protected from dust, wrinkles, and/or damage.

In some embodiments, the closure system comprises a plurality of magnetsinstead of the plurality of connecting members. In some embodiments, theclosure system comprises a plurality of magnets and a plurality ofconnecting members. In some embodiments, the plurality of magnets havethe same thicknesses and arrangement that the plurality of connectingmembers have with regard to closure system 20 and 120, described above.In some embodiments, the closure system further comprises a band orbands configured for snap engagement with the article of apparel. Insome embodiments, the band or bands are elastic. In some embodiments,the band or bands are not elastic.

Method of Operating the Closure System

A method of operating closure system 20 in conjunction with an articleof apparel is provided, the method comprising: introducing the articleof apparel having at least a first portion and a second portion;attaching an outer panel to the first portion, the outer panelcomprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members;attaching an inner panel to the first portion comprising an outersurface having a plurality of connecting members; and attaching aninsertion panel to the second portion, the insertion panel configuredfor engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel, the insertionpanel comprising an interior surface and an exterior surface, eachsurface having a plurality of connecting members; and inserting theinsertion panel with the outer and inner panels, wherein the innersurface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of theinsertion panel, and the outer surface of the inner panel engages withthe interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure theinsertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

In some embodiments, the outer panel and the inner panel arecircumferential panels. In some embodiments, the outer panel and theinner panel form a pocket, and the insertion panel is inserted into thepocket.

In some embodiments, the outer and inner panels friction interlock withthe insertion panel. For example, the inner surface of the outer panelalong with the plurality of connecting members 26 engages with theexterior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality ofconnecting members 40, and the outer surface of the inner panel alongwith the plurality of connecting members 32 engages with the interiorsurface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connectingmembers 40, so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and innerpanels. In some embodiments, when the outer panel and the inner panelform a pocket, the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket, and theinsertion panel is secured within the pocket. In one embodiment, theouter and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel.

In some embodiments, such as, when the closure system comprises theplurality of connecting members described above, the insertion panel isfriction locked with the outer and inner panels when the closure systemis fixed with an article of apparel that is being worn by a user. Forexample, the user's limbs expanding the elastic material of the articleof apparel (e.g., wetsuit), combined with the closure system, causes atight fit that friction locks the insertion panel with the outer andinner panels.

In some embodiments, the closure system is attached to an article ofapparel including, but not limited to, clothing, gear, underclothing,leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories, and other fabric materials. Insome embodiments, the closure system is attached to clothing organizersand/or hangers.

In some embodiments, the closure system is attached to the article ofapparel either permanently or temporarily. In some embodiments, theclosure system is fixedly attached to the article of apparel via anadhesive or stitching. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes, butis not limited to, polymers such as polyamides, polyolefins, andpolyurethanes (including polyurethaneureas), hot melt adhesive, acyanoacrylate, an epoxy, polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol (includingrubber), a thermoplastic (including polyurethanes, polyesters, andpolyamides), silicone, latex polymer, a thermoset, a pressure sensitiveadhesive or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive isadministered in a glue, tape, or spray form. In some embodiments, theadhesive can be applied in strips, dots, and/or in layers. In someembodiments, the adhesive includes dispersions or films. In someembodiments, the stitching comprises lock stitch, zigzag stitch, stretchstitch, cover stitch, back tack, backstitch, basting stitch, chainstitch, cross-stitch, pad stitch, running stitch, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the closure system is attached to thearticle of apparel via an adhesive and/or stitching.

Having described various embodiments of the application with referenceto the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that theapplication is not limited to those precise embodiments, and thatvarious changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilledin the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the applicationas defined in the appended claims. Such modifications includesubstitution of components for components specifically identifiedherein, wherein the substitute components provide functional resultswhich permit the overall functional operation of the present applicationto be maintained. Such substitutions are intended to encompass presentlyknown components and components yet to be developed which are acceptedas replacements for components identified herein and which produceresult compatible with operation of the present application.

1. A closure system comprising: an outer panel comprising an innersurface having a plurality of connecting members; an inner panelcomprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members;and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the outer paneland the inner panel, the insertion panel comprising an interior surfaceand an exterior surface, each surface having a plurality of connectingmembers, wherein the inner surface of the outer panel engages with theexterior surface of the insertion panel, and the outer surface of theinner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel soas to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
 2. Aclosure system according to claim 1, wherein the outer and inner panelsfriction interlock with the insertion panel.
 3. A closure systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the outer panel and the inner panel arecircumferential panels.
 4. A closure system according to claim 1,wherein the outer panel and the inner panel form a pocket, and theinsertion panel is inserted into the pocket.
 5. A closure systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the closure system is fixedly attached toan article of apparel.
 6. A closure system according to claim 5, whereinthe closure system is fixedly attached to the article of apparel via anadhesive or stitching.
 7. A closure system according to claim 1, whereinthe plurality of connecting members comprise a rubber.
 8. A closuresystem according to claim 1, wherein (i) the connecting members aremolded into shapes comprising circles, squares, triangles, ovals,crescents, rectangles, waves, horseshoes, rods, or a combination thereofand (iii) the plurality of connecting members are arranged in a pattern.9. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality ofconnecting members are screen printed onto the outer panel, the innerpanel and the insertion panel.
 10. A closure system according to claim1, wherein the closure system alternatively comprises a band instead ofthe plurality of connecting members.
 11. A closure system according toclaim 1, wherein the closure system alternatively comprises a pluralityof magnets instead of the plurality of connecting members.
 12. A closuresystem according to claim 1, wherein the outer panel, the inner paneland the insertion panel each comprise chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®),spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®),canvas or a combination thereof.
 13. An apparel closure systemcomprising: a pocket comprising an outer panel comprising an innersurface having a plurality of connecting members and an inner panelcomprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members;and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the pocket, theinsertion panel comprising an exterior surface and an interior surface,each surface having a plurality of connecting members, wherein the innersurface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of theinsertion panel and the outer surface of the inner panel engages withthe interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure theinsertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
 14. An apparel closuresystem according to claim 13, wherein (i) the apparel closure system isfixedly attached to an article of apparel; and (ii) the apparel closuresystem is fixedly attached to the article of apparel via an adhesive orstitching.
 15. An apparel closure system according to claim 13, whereinthe (i) plurality of connecting members comprise a rubber, (ii) theplurality of connecting members are molded into shapes comprisingcircles, squares, triangles, ovals, crescents, rectangles, waves,horseshoes, rods, or a combination thereof; and (iii) the plurality ofconnecting members are arranged in a pattern.
 16. An apparel closuresystem according to claim 13, wherein the pocket and the insertion paneleach comprise chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®),flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or acombination thereof.
 17. A wetsuit comprising: a body having a distalend comprising a first pocket and a second pocket, each of the pocketscomprising an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a pluralityof connecting members and an inner panel comprising an outer surfacehaving a plurality of connecting members; a first legging; and a secondlegging, each of the leggings comprising an insertion panel disposed ata proximal end, and configured for engagement with the outer panel andthe inner panel of the pocket, the insertion panel comprising aninterior surface and an exterior surface, each surface having aplurality of connecting members, wherein the inner surface of the outerpanel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel and theouter surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface ofthe insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outerand inner panels.
 18. A wetsuit according to claim 17, wherein the (i)plurality of connecting members comprise a rubber, (ii) the plurality ofconnecting members are molded into shapes comprising circles, squares,triangles, ovals, crescents, rectangles, waves, horseshoes, rods, or acombination thereof; and (iii) the plurality of connecting members arearranged in a pattern.
 19. A wetsuit according to claim 17, wherein thewetsuit is configured to friction interlock when a user wears thewetsuit.
 20. A wetsuit according to claim 17, wherein the body, thefirst pocket, the second pocket and the insertion panel each comprisechloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-densitypolyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof.